Fitting a Cat Flap

Installing a cat-friendly flap in your home is a great option for any pet owner. There are many options available for you, no matter if your cat is getting older and requires extra security, or you have kittens who need to be checked.
Installing a cat flap can be a daunting task for novices, but, with the right instructions, it's not hard to accomplish. The most important thing is planning, preparation and accuracy.
Choose the Right Door or Windows
There are a wide variety of cat flaps available, some with locks (which can be used to stop your pet from going out or entering) and others with advanced features like microchip door entry systems. It is important to consider the ease of your cat to teach to use the flap prior to making a buy and install one.
Depending on the design of your home It is recommended to place the cat flap in a window or door that opens out into an area that is protected from the garden so that your cat can feel safe when leaving and entering the home. If you can this will also allow them a way back should they be pursued by a different cat or by humans intent to harm them.
It is possible to install a cat flap in a uPVC door or glass window however it's not as easy as putting one in the door made of wood. This is because uPVC and composite doors come in various thicknesses, which can affect the way holes are cut and the material you're fixing it to.
To avoid costly mistakes to avoid costly mistakes, it is recommended to consult an expert glazier before installing the flap on a glass-fronted door. If you are fitting the flap to a wooden door you must introduce your cat first so that it can become familiar with its dimensions and shape.
Find out the size of your cat's belly
It is important to know the measurements of your cat to ensure that the cat flap you choose to install is the perfect fit. This will allow you to ensure that the flap is at the right height on your window or door and that it's wide enough to allow them to enter and out easily.
To do this, lay your pet on their back and gently run your fingers along their belly. Find a squishy fat pad around the lower back, face or legs. The extra padding offers your pet safety and allows them to move more easily, especially when performing the acrobatics cats are known for.
You can also use the weight of your pet to determine the size of an opening you need. If your cat weighs at or over 5kg, for example that's a 14x12cm cat flap opening is advised.
Make sure you measure your door or window
This kind of cat flap, as the name suggests, is made to be fitted into the door. It allows your pet to move in and out at their convenience. These flaps are constructed of plastic or aluminum and are located in the middle of the door. They feature a two-way swinging opening that is opened by gently pushing on either side. There are locks on some of these flaps that offer additional security to ensure that your cat isn't able to walk through from the outside.
Cat flaps are also commonly employed in windows. They are easy to be installed, but they need to be installed at a height where cats and dogs find it difficult to get them. If the window isn't high enough to use a cat's flap, then you can opt for steps, ramps or specially designed stairs to aid the animal in getting to it.
It is possible to insert the cat flap onto the brick wall, however it is not recommended for people who aren't experienced in the masonry industry. This could cause the wall to weaken. Before you begin, it's important to make sure that the wall is free of cables and pipes. It is recommended to consult an expert if you have to make a hole for pipes or cables. It is also recommended to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to avoid breathing in any sawdust that is created by cutting into the walls of your house.
Select the Right Cat Flap
There are numerous cat flaps on the market and they all have different features. Some cat flaps have security features, such as magnetic locks or microchip recognition which prevent unauthorised entry. They also stop your pet from letting guests or other animals into the house. Some also have insulation and weatherproof seals that keep out draughts and moisture.
There are different sizes available depending on the breed and size of your pet. Some cat flaps are rectangular whereas others are circular or square. The kind of cat flap you choose will depend on the size of the opening and the type of window or door you're fitting it to.
The last thing to do is consider the type of opening mechanism the cat flap will employ. The cheapest option is a simple swing-out aluminium or plastic door. However, it will not keep other animals or cats from gaining access and you could be letting draughts in too.
fitting a cat flap to put in your cat flap. Begin by marking the height of the belly on the door with a ruler. Use a spirit-level to make sure the line isn't too low and is straight on the door. Use your spirit level to draw a template of the flap for cats. Then, using the saw, cut out the outline of the door. When you are satisfied with the result finish sanding the edges and drill through the pencil markings to make holes for screws.
Prepare the Tools
Like any DIY jobs, it's always recommended to have the right tools to complete the task. The most essential things you'll need are the cat flap along with a tape measure, a good pencil as well as a spirit level, drill, file and the jigsaw (depending on your windows or doors).
If you're installing a composite door, consult with the manufacturer prior to making any alterations since this could invalidate the warranty or break the weathertight seal. In this case, you'll probably require a new pane of toughened glass instead.
You'll require the jigsaw to cut your cat flap on a wooden or uPVC door. Follow the directions that are provided by the manufacturer. If possible, use an example to identify the size of hole you need to cut.
After you've cut the hole, you will have to sand the edges of the opening. This will help prevent future rust and water damage. In the end, you must apply any sealant you require to the rear of the cat flap, and to the holes in the door or window to block rain and wind. After the sealant has dried, you're ready to install your new cat flap!
Install the Flap
If you want your cat to be able to come and go as it pleases, fitting flaps can be helpful. This is a simple process that most people can accomplish themselves, although you will likely require the help of a professional if you are installing the flap in a glass door or other kind of uPVC door.
Check out the directions included with the cat flap. There is a template drawing. This will give you an idea of the location where the holes will be made for the flap in the door. Mark the areas that you'll need to drill with a pencil.
After you have mapped out the area in your door then use a jigsaw cut out the shape of the cat flap. This is a relatively simple job however you'll need be comfortable with a jigsaw. If you are concerned about doing it yourself, there are many businesses that can handle this for you at a very low cost.
Then, attach the outer part to the hole of your door. You may need to apply sealant prior to making this move to ensure it stays watertight and weather resistant. The outside of your cat flap could be placed on the bolts on top, and then tightened together. You should test the cat flap on your cat to make sure that it is working correctly and that it allows them to enter and exit easily.